It has been dazzling young and old alike for hundreds of years. The historic Ruggieri company, based near Toulouse, designs impressive fireworks displays all over the world. Here’s a look back at this family saga, which has put its art at the service of celebrations.
In the 1730s, the five Ruggieri brothers left Bologna in Italy to conquer France. In 1739, Pierre, François, Antoine, Petroni and Gaëtan were commissioned to perform at the court of Versailles. The family team put on an incredible fireworks display at Versailles to mark the wedding of Madame, one of Louis XV’s eight daughters, to the infant Philip of Spain. At the same time, the eldest son, Petronio, was appointed King’s Artificer by Louis XV. He received a handsome pension and the Porcherons estate, an imposing building in Paris where, in 1766, he opened the Jardin Ruggieri, offering shows and fireworks.
Artificers called in by the nobility
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the courts of Europe called on Ruggieri for their celebrations and public festivities. In 1770, fireworks were set off in Paris in honour of the union between the future Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette. Gaëtan worked for George II, King of England. Queen Victoria was also a client.
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